Title: Roots in Sanqin, Hearts in Canada — The 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Shaanxi Association of Canada Successfully Held

2026/02/26

On February 22, 2026, the sixth day of the first lunar month—a day symbolizing smooth sailing and good fortune—the Shaanxi Association of Canada grandly launched its 25th Anniversary Celebration and Charity Gala, themed “Roots in Sanqin, Hearts in Canada.” Nearly 500 distinguished guests from China and Canada—including government officials, association directors and elders, representatives from sister associations, community leaders, alumni associations of Shaanxi universities, and fellow Shaanxi compatriots—gathered to celebrate the association's 25 years of excellence, share the warmth of hometown ties through Qinqiang opera, and discuss future development. The atmosphere was both vibrant and solemn, filled with the rich sounds of hometown dialects and heartfelt camaraderie.

On February 22, 2026, the sixth day of the first lunar month—a day symbolizing smooth sailing and good fortune—the Shaanxi Association of Canada grandly launched its 25th Anniversary Celebration and Charity Gala, themed “Roots in Sanqin, Hearts in Canada.” Nearly 500 distinguished guests from China and Canada—including government officials, association directors and elders, representatives from sister associations, community leaders, alumni associations of Shaanxi universities, and fellow Shaanxi compatriots—gathered to celebrate the association's 25 years of excellence. Together they shared the warmth of hometown ties through Qinqiang opera, discussed future development, and immersed themselves in an atmosphere that was both vibrant and solemn, filled with the rich sounds of their native dialect and heartfelt camaraderie

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

At 6:30 PM that evening, the celebration commenced with a warm-up performance by the Great Tang Drum Band and the Ansai Waist Drum Troupe, led by Teacher Zou Cheng. The majestic sounds of gongs and drums resonated with the bold spirit of Shaanxi people, instantly igniting the atmosphere. Simultaneous projections on the backdrop further immersed the venue in the rich traditions and rhythms of ancient Qin culture.

Amidst a rousing and majestic drum and gong performance, hosts Guo Ran, Han Xiao, Jason, and Xu Chun took the stage together, officially launching the splendid journey of this celebration. In their opening remarks, the hosts recounted the 25-year journey of the hometown association, reflecting on the enduring bonds of hometown ties, and extended a warm welcome to all distinguished guests and fellow townsfolk in attendance.

As the head of the organization, Zhou Zhijun, President of the Canadian Shaanxi Association, took the stage to deliver his speech. With a smile, he candidly remarked: " Seeing the packed audience today makes me feel more content than eating a bowl of roujiamo.“ His slip of the tongue in measuring words instantly energized the entire venue. Zhou recounted the association's 25-year journey from its humble beginnings in 2001—”a few old Shaanxi folks gathering around a table to reminisce about home"—to its current status as a thousand-strong Qin people's army. He sincerely thanked the volunteer council team, performers, and staff for their hard work, as well as sponsors for their generous support. He highlighted three core commitments upheld by the association over 25 years: preserving Shaanxi cuisine to spread the aroma of chili oil across Canada, establishing seven community clubs to keep fellow Shaanxi natives fit and healthy, and deepening roots in local communities to anchor Shaanxi influence overseas. In October 2025, the association traveled to Montreal to establish the Montreal Chapter of the Canadian Shaanxi Association alongside local compatriots. This expansion broadens our community services and further embodies our philosophy of “deepening community roots and establishing overseas foundations.” “For the association, 25 years is like putting on new running shoes and gearing up to accelerate,” declared President Zhou Zhijun. This down-to-earth yet bold statement, quintessentially Shaanxi in spirit, drew waves of applause and resounding cheers of “Liao za le!” from the audience. Concluding his address, President Zhou Zhijun led all council members in extending New Year greetings to fellow compatriots. The crowd responded with a resounding chorus of “Shaanxi Association, you rock!” creating an exceptionally vibrant atmosphere. Following the speech, council members and senior members gathered on stage for a group photo, capturing this precious moment.

This celebration drew significant attention from political figures in both China and Canada. Deputy Consul General Cheng Hongbo of the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Toronto, who was invited to attend, took the stage first. He extended heartfelt congratulations to the Canadian Shaanxi Association on its 25th anniversary and wished the overseas Chinese community present a prosperous Year of the Horse. He highlighted Shaanxi's unique historical significance in China, quoting the ancient saying “Though Zhou is an ancient state, its destiny is ever new” to inspire the association. He praised Shaanxi for its millennia-old cultural heritage combined with its ability to innovate and adapt to the times. He highly commended the association's vital role in building a warm home for Shaanxi-born overseas Chinese and serving as a bridge for exchanges between Shaanxi and Canada. He further encouraged the association to uphold its founding spirit in this new era of building a new strategic partnership between China and Canada, and achieve even more brilliant development in the next 25 years.

Ontario MPP Wong Huiwen extended New Year greetings in both Chinese and English. She expressed gratitude to the volunteers, board members, and founders of the association, commending the celebration for bringing everyone together to experience culture and remember history. She affirmed the pride and responsibility of Shaanxi-born Chinese Canadians, thanked the association for its contributions to community development, and wished for enduring friendship between China and Canada.

Deputy Mayor Chen Zhihui of Richmond Hill took the stage to extend his blessings. He congratulated the association on its 25 years of dedicated service, wishing its members and all guests present a prosperous Year of the Horse filled with good fortune and wealth, and success in all endeavors. He further praised the association not only for its outstanding event organization but also for its exceptionally appealing Shaanxi cuisine, offering heartfelt wishes for the celebration's complete success.

Markham City Councillor Li Guoxian congratulated the association on its 25th anniversary in his address, He shared his experiences visiting Xi'an, Shaanxi, along with his research and appreciation for Xi'an's history and culture. He proudly noted Markham became Canada's first city to designate February as Chinese Heritage Month, while Ontario became the first province in Canada to establish Chinese Heritage Month. York Region also adopted the initiative simultaneously. Concluding his remarks, he delivered Lunar New Year blessings in Hakka to fellow countrymen present, wishing them prosperity and good health in the Year of the Horse.

Markham City Councillor for Ward 6, Yang Qiqing, extended New Year greetings to fellow compatriots with the blessing “A prosperous Year of the Horse.” She praised the celebration's arrangements for showcasing the profound heritage of Chinese history and culture, reflecting on how each dynasty throughout China's five-thousand-year history possessed unique cultural and lifestyle characteristics. Emphasizing the vital importance of remembering historical and cultural roots, she highly commended the Association's celebration for its significance in preserving China's outstanding traditional culture, wishing the event complete success.

Mark Lee, City Councillor for Markham's Ward 8, also extended New Year wishes for good fortune, leading the pack, and swift success in the Year of the Horse. Deeply moved by the celebration's rich historical and cultural atmosphere, he expressed great anticipation for the Shaanxi-style cuisine on offer, openly admitting he was drawn by delicacies like mutton soup with bread and BiangBiang noodles. He further referenced the Lunar New Year blockbuster “Journey to Qin” to highlight the unique charm of Shaanxi's history and culture, expressing pride in his Chinese heritage. He wished the Shaanxi Association a happy 25th anniversary and continued success in its endeavors.

Councillor Cui Binghui of Richmond Hill, a fellow townsman from Weinan, Shaanxi, delivered New Year greetings in his native dialect. He recounted the splendid history of Xi'an, Shaanxi—an ancient capital to thirteen dynasties—from the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the beacon fires on Mount Li that deceived feudal lords, Yang Guifei's Huaqing Palace, the ancestral home of Taoism on Mount Zhongnan, and Sun Simiao, the Sage of Medicine. He highlighted Shaanxi's profound cultural heritage and highly commended the Shaanxi Association for its 25 years of contributions to helping Shaanxi compatriots and the Canadian Chinese community take root and flourish. He also humorously adapted an ancient poem into authentic Shaanxi dialect: “Rain pours down on Qingming Festival, Passersby get drenched on the road, Asking where the tavern lies, The shepherd boy points far away.” His witty rendition drew continuous laughter and applause from the entire audience.

Canadian Members of Parliament Michael Ma (Rongzheng Ma) and Vincent Neil Ho (Nuoxuan He), along with a representative from Toronto City Councillor Nick Mantas, graced the occasion with their presence. They delivered congratulatory letters from the respective parliamentarians, extending heartfelt wishes for the 25th anniversary of the Canadian Shaanxi Association. The letters affirmed the association's positive role in uniting the overseas Chinese community and promoting multicultural integration. President Zhou Zhijun led all board members onto the stage to receive the congratulatory letters and took commemorative photos with the representatives of the political dignitaries.

The 25th anniversary celebration of the Shaanxi Provincial Association was graced with on-site congratulations from leaders of the Federation of Provincial Associations, representatives of sister associations, leaders of other community organizations, and representatives of Shaanxi university alumni associations. Representatives from various community organizations took the stage in turn to deliver speeches. Title sponsor Ivy Song Bingyan of Hongrui Financial took the stage to share her journey of partnership with the association. She extended New Year blessings of good fortune, family happiness, and career prosperity to fellow compatriots, reflecting on her deep connection to Northwest China. Expressing gratitude for the association's and members' 22 years of support, she wished the Canadian Shaanxi Association continued prosperity and success. The association presented her with a specially crafted paper-cut artwork by a Shaanxi artist, acknowledging her generous contribution to the celebration. Each guest's address overflowed with blessings for the association, further highlighting the united strength of overseas Chinese communities.

Following the solemn and enthusiastic speeches, a group photo session was held to capture the precious moments of this grand gathering of the overseas Chinese community. The celebration organizing committee also specially arranged the traditional Shaanxi folk rituals of “Sending Away Poverty” and “Welcoming the God of Wealth.” Qu Liangguo, a veteran member of the hometown association, took the stage to deliver a speech, extending New Year blessings to fellow compatriots and conveying heartfelt aspirations for the future.

The most heartwarming moment of the gala celebration was undoubtedly the 25th-anniversary cake-cutting ceremony. Five custom cakes, each draped in red silk before the ceremony, were displayed on stage. The centerpiece featured an edible logo of the association adorned with a special “25” candle, while the other cakes each bore five small candles. Red silk ribbons tied to the cake knife handles added a touch of ceremonial elegance to every detail. Twenty dignitaries, sponsors, and key guests were invited to the stage to jointly illuminate the 25th-anniversary light display and cut the commemorative cake. As “Happy Birthday” played on loop, a promotional video of the association aired, revisiting twenty-five years of memorable moments. The cake team and restaurant staff worked together to slice each cake into ten portions, distributing one slice per table so everyone could share in the sweetness and joy.

Amidst the warm and romantic strains of “Happy Birthday,” the event unveiled a major surprise—Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow graced the celebration with her presence. All guests and fellow villagers rose to their feet in applause, instantly elevating the atmosphere to a fever pitch. Mayor Chow took the stage dressed in traditional Shaanxi folk waist drum attire, drumsticks in hand and a small waist drum at her side, joining the Anse waist drum troupe for a performance. Amidst the powerful, rhythmic drumbeats, she moved with graceful steps, perfectly synchronized with the performers. Together, they vividly showcased the majestic power and dynamic charm of northern Shaanxi waist drumming. The drumbeats echoed throughout the venue, while cheers, applause, and shouts of excitement from the audience blended into a roaring chorus, creating one of the most electrifying moments of the celebration.

Following the performance, Mayor Zou Zhihui extended New Year greetings to fellow compatriots in both Mandarin and Cantonese, wishing everyone good fortune in the Year of the Horse, boundless energy, swift success, and fulfillment of aspirations. She shared her longstanding admiration for the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor and the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, Shaanxi, emphasizing the profound importance of preserving China's outstanding traditional culture in Canada. She also announced three major pieces of good news for Toronto residents: First, property taxes have been reduced to 2.2%, the lowest rate in the Greater Toronto Area. Small business property taxes have been further cut by 5%, and commercial property tax relief has increased from 15% to 20%, providing tangible benefits to businesses. Second, community safety has significantly improved. The city has increased funding to hire 360 additional police officers, resulting in a 70% reduction in 911 response times. Ambulance services and emergency medical care have also been upgraded. Third, enhanced services for seniors, with Toronto Public Libraries now open seven days a week, providing rich learning and activity resources for citizens and overseas Chinese. She highly commended the Canadian Shaanxi Association for its 25 years of active contributions to Toronto's multicultural development and people-to-people exchanges between China and Canada. She fully affirmed the spirit of Shaanxi compatriots who have taken root overseas and united in their endeavors. Finally, she wished everyone good health and prosperous businesses in the Year of the Horse.

Following the address, the Shaanxi Association of Canada presented Mayor Zou Zhihui with a uniquely crafted New Year gift—a precious Shaanxi paper-cut featuring her portrait. This paper-cut masterpiece, crafted by Wei Yongxin from Lintong Paper-Cutting Village in Shaanxi, features delicate knife work and a vividly lifelike image. It not only showcases the exquisite charm of Shaanxi folk art but also carries the warm wishes of fellow Shaanxi natives for Mayor Zou Zhihui, along with sincere respect for Toronto's inclusive and multicultural spirit. Mayor Zou accepted this special gift, expressing great admiration for the craftsmanship of the paper-cutting. She then posed for photos with representatives of the Shaanxi Association and members of the waist drum team, creating a heartwarming moment that became a cherished memory of the celebration.

The gala reached one climax after another, while the banquet filled the air with the aroma of delicacies. After the banquet commenced, a series of performances choreographed by the villagers themselves and multiple rounds of lucky draws took the stage, building anticipation to its peak. Liang Yuan, the chief director of the celebration, took the stage to deliver New Year greetings, accompanied by a simultaneous screening of celebratory video messages from prominent figures, further amplifying the festive atmosphere. Subsequently, a dazzling array of cultural performances unfolded, treating guests to an audiovisual feast blending the essence of Qin culture with diverse artistic charms. Own Dance Performing Arts presented the children's dance “BiangBiang Noodles,” brimming with childlike charm as young performers embodied the vibrant spirit of the Three Qins region. The instrumental ensemble featuring Wang Chunjie, Ye Lan, Zhong Yun, and Dong Fuchen delivered “Newly Arranged Horse Racing” and “Celebration of Heavenly Immortals,” blending tradition with modernity to fully showcase the essence of Qin culture. The classical dance “Spring in Chang'an” by the Shaanxi Overseas Chinese Association Dance Troupe transported the audience back to the Tang Dynasty with its graceful movements, evoking the carefree spirit of “spring breezes carrying horses at full gallop” and the vibrant splendor of Chang'an where “a thousand hues of purple and red always herald spring.” Onstage, the excitement reached new heights; offstage, Association President Zhou Zhijun shared in an Omni TV interview that the association serves as a home for Shaanxi natives abroad. It not only fosters hometown connections and promotes Shaanxi culture but also provides comprehensive services for new immigrants, international students, and seniors.

Subsequently, Chairman Zhou Zhijun led the God of Wealth and two young girls as they visited each villager to extend New Year greetings, presenting red envelopes symbolizing good fortune and prosperity.

The highlight of the evening banquet was the charity auction, a moment that truly showcased compassion. Conducted by Mr. Yang Xi'an, the auction world's “anchor” and “rhythm master,” all proceeds from this auction will be dedicated to supporting fellow villagers in Shaanxi. Attendees enthusiastically participated, conveying hometown affection through their generosity and demonstrating the responsibility and commitment of overseas Shaanxi natives. Following the auction, the cultural performances continued to captivate the audience: Own Dance Performing Arts presented “Prosperous China,” a fusion of classical jazz dance that sparked a unique blend of ancient Eastern charm and modern jazz; The small chorus “Times Gone By,” performed by representatives of the Association President, filled the air with melodious voices, evoking a flood of memories; Chu Guang's solo performance, combined with a runway show featuring Association Council members and their families in “Mars Project: Mystic Warhorse,” blended technological flair with powerful energy, showcasing the distinctive style of the Association Council and its members. This became the highlight of the evening! The stirring melody of “Mysterious Warhorse” and the runway show within the song showcased tenderness, muscle, and the strength of the hometown association and its council.

The celebration proceeded to the awards ceremony and lucky draw segment. Onstage, recipients of the Shaanxi Association of Canada's 25th Anniversary Outstanding Contribution Award and Outstanding Volunteer Award were honored for their tireless efforts in advancing the association. Subsequently, the first round of the roulette draw commenced, with sponsors serving as draw hosts and the God of Wealth adding festive flair. The grand prize further elevated the joyous atmosphere. Lighting vouchers were sponsored by Zhang Xiaoyan; measuring tapes by ViVA; membership cards by Zhu Jiang; tea by Victoria; and shopping cards by Weng Xiangquan. Beauty vouchers were sponsored by Zhang Xiaoyan, heated eye masks by Roger Bright Vision, and ukuleles by Sunshine Music Store. Lighting fixtures were provided by ViVA, LCBO cards by Zhang Tian, and guitars by Sunshine Music Store. Lucky guests received wonderful gifts, filling the venue with continuous joy and celebration.

Following the awards and raffle, the cultural performances returned to the stage, showcasing diverse charms: The poetry recitation “SHEworld 2026” by female representatives from “Her World” spoke of feminine strength with gentle yet resolute conviction; the Dongfengcai Dance Troupe's “Happy New Year” vividly captured the vibrant red hues and joyous spirit of the Spring Festival; The ethnic dance “Beauty in the Rainy Alley” by the Shaanxi Provincial Association Dance Troupe featured graceful movements and a beautifully evocative atmosphere. The Shaanxi dialect duet “Two Butterflies” performed by Li Yuanming, Vice President of the Canadian Shaanxi Provincial Association, and Ms. Kou Tong delivered heartfelt warmth in authentic local tones, becoming a highlight of the evening. An Wensheng and May Wang's poetry recitation “Eight Hundred Li of Qin Plains” deeply expressed their longing for their homeland, resonating with all fellow Shaanxi natives in attendance; Dongfengcai Dance Troupe's “Nowhere to Hide” radiated energy, eliciting applause so enthusiastic it made one feel “nowhere to hide.” The Canadian Recitation Art Troupe's poetry recital “Ansei Waist Drum” used stirring words to recreate the drum's majestic grandeur, propelling the atmosphere to another climax.

As the gala drew to a close, the four hosts reunited on stage to deliver heartfelt closing remarks. They reflected on the celebration's highlights, expressing gratitude to all behind-the-scenes staff, performers, and every compatriot and guest who had journeyed with the association over its twenty-five years. They pledged to continue walking hand in hand for the next twenty-five years, steadfastly upholding the founding spirit of “Roots in Shaanxi, Hearts in Canada.” Secretary-General Zhu Lei of the Montreal Chapter drove six hours to bring their chapter flag to our celebration, a deeply moving gesture. Subsequently, all chapter presidents took the stage to lead the singing of “Unforgettable Tonight.” The hosts then invited all guests and performers to join them on stage for a group photo and sing-along. The entire audience joined in the chorus, their voices filled with camaraderie and warmth, forever capturing the beautiful moments of this 25th-anniversary celebration. Amidst this warm and vibrant atmosphere, the 25th Anniversary Celebration and Charity Gala of the Shaanxi Association of Canada concluded successfully. A special Shaanxi cuisine showcase area, featuring regional delicacies from Northern Shaanxi, Guanzhong, and Southern Shaanxi, was set up alongside the banquet hall, creating a unique highlight of the event.

The event featured video presentations detailing the origins and distinctive characteristics of 25 Shaanxi delicacies, immersing attendees in the rich, authentic flavors of Shaanxi cuisine. This thoughtful arrangement became a highlight among guests, with Richmond Hill's Deputy Mayor specifically acknowledging the heartfelt culinary display in his remarks. He praised it for offering Canadians an intimate experience of Shaanxi's unique gastronomic culture. The food zone gathered classic delicacies from multiple specialty vendors: - Northwest Tower offered Shaanxi staples like liangpi (cold noodles), stir-fried liangfen (starch jelly), roujiamo (meat-stuffed flatbread), yangrou paomo (mutton soup with bread), stir-fried paomo, huo la tang (spicy soup), and hu lu ji (gourd chicken); - Qin Yun showcased specialty varieties including mianpi (wheat flour noodles), mipi (rice noodles), caimi pi (vegetable rice noodles), and saozi mianpi (spicy minced meat noodles); Teacher Guo (Jia Wai Jia) served two classic noodle dishes: buckwheat noodles and rice noodles; Lao Hu Mirror Cake and Shisan Mei Roujiamo brought authentic Guanzhong flavors; Ai Xue Liangpi and San Mei Liangpi each showcased their specialties. A dedicated noodle-making and dough-sculpting demonstration area was also set up on-site, where exquisite dough sculptures vividly displayed the charm of Shaanxi's folk culinary culture.

The resounding success of this grand celebration owes much to Director Liang Yuan, whose professional vision and warm expression meticulously orchestrated the entire gala, allowing Shaanxi and Toronto to converge and shine on the same stage. The event's triumph also stems from the selfless dedication of all volunteers and the professional documentation by the photography team. The conference specially recognized the entire volunteer team for their tireless efforts in this 25th-anniversary celebration. They demonstrated diligence and quiet perseverance in every role—from on-site guidance and order maintenance to logistical support and ceremonial reception—ensuring the gala's smooth execution through their passion and hard work. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the photographers and videographers who meticulously captured every memorable moment throughout the event. Through their professional lenses, they documented this grand celebration for overseas Shaanxi natives, preserving invaluable visual records for the association. Twenty-five years of weathering storms together, twenty-five years of enduring hometown bonds. Since its founding in 2001, the Canadian Shaanxi Association has steadfastly embraced its mission to unite overseas Shaanxi compatriots, building a platform for exchange among Shaanxi people in Canada. Through the bonds of cuisine, culture, and art, it has become a vital bridge for disseminating Shaanxi culture, fostering Sino-Canadian cultural exchange, and advancing economic cooperation and people-to-people friendship between the two regions. This 25th-anniversary celebration not only reflects on the past quarter-century of establishing roots overseas, uniting compatriots, and preserving cultural heritage, but also marks the starting point for the association's new journey. Moving forward, the Shaanxi Association of Canada will remain true to its founding mission, rallying greater strength from overseas Shaanxi natives to compose a new chapter embodying the spirit of “Roots in Sanqin, Hearts in Canada.” It will continue contributing the collective strength of Shaanxi people to the development of people-to-people exchanges between China and Canada.